Superman, Batman: Public Enemies

by Jeph Loeb

What are superheroes to do when an arch villain attains the United States presidency? Some sign up for government service to keep an eye on things, some follow the concept of “If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em,” and others continue to search for that little crack in the armor that will expose the president for who he really is. Naturally, Batman and Superman choose the latter, eventually becoming Wanted Men.

This collection of comic book episodes provides a slightly different storytelling mechanism, compared with typical serial graphic publications. The main story is told in first person by both Bruce Wayne and Clark Kent, alternating from time to time with pictorial displays of the two of them together. The plot and story flow is amazingly complex, considering the usual style and quality of comic book writing. There is a good mystery and some fine subplots to enjoy.

Rating: None. There is the expected cartoon violence, but the individual bodily injury artwork is not exploitative.

— Reviewed by Craig Smith

Craig Smith is chief medical officer of Tacoma Cat Hospital. In addition to providing book reviews on Rated Reads, he podcasts about feline health issues through iTunes and www.tacomacat.com.